What happened
On 28 January 2019, a solo navigation training flight ended in an accident at Port Alfred Aerodrome. The pilot, operating a Piper PA28-180 with registration ZS-IKJ, was returning to the aerodrome to conclude a flight conducted under Part 141 training regulations.
During the approach to Runway 10L, the aircraft was traveling at a low airspeed. As the aircraft neared the threshold, a sudden increase in headwind caused the aircraft to balloon. The pilot was unable to correct this effect, leading to a hard landing that caused the nose gear to collapse. The aircraft came to a stop on the grass runway approximately 450 meters from the threshold. The pilot was able to exit the aircraft without assistance, and no injuries were sustained.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the flight conditions and the mechanical state of the aircraft. At the time of the incident, wind speeds were reported between 20 and 25 knots, with gusts reaching up to 25 knots, while the South African Weather Service recorded even higher winds between 30 and 35 knots.
The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid student pilot licence and a current class 1 medical certificate. The aircraft, ZS-IKJ, had a valid Certificate of Airworthiness and was up to date with its mandatory periodical inspections. The investigation focused on the aerodynamic interaction between the aircraft's approach speed and the shifting wind components.
Findings
- The aircraft was approaching the runway at a speed that was too slow for the prevailing conditions.
- A sudden increase in the headwind component caused the aircraft to balloon just before touchdown.
- The pilot failed to compensate for the change in wind, resulting in the hard landing.
- The impact caused substantial damage to the engine, cowling, propeller, and nose gear.